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After easing into 2026, the year already seems to be moving at full speed. It is no surprise that the financial media has wasted no time latching onto its favourite themes. While these topics generate plenty of noise, they rarely deserve the attention they receive when viewed through the lens of a long-term financial plan. In this month's newsletter, we explore what we call the "10-year test”, a simple but powerful way to evaluate whether today's headlines truly matter to you

If you are looking for a new financial adviser, it may not be by choice. Over the last two years, we have seen two clear trends in the financial advice profession: Increased consolidation, where smaller firms are acquired by larger groups Direct intervention by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), including suspending firms from carrying out regulated activities

Happy New Year! We hope 2026 has started well for you and your family. As another year begins, our minds often turn to New Year's resolutions. These may well not even last into February. However, in the office, aside from the normal 'get fitter' pledges, the suggestion has been made of limiting time spent on screens, outside of work. It has already been mentioned a number of times. There may be an alternative, which Dr Arthur Brooks suggests could be the best thing for us. He

It’s a question we hear all the time:   “Do I actually need a financial planner?”“Isn’t that just for wealthy people?”   These are reasonable questions. Over the years, DIY platforms have encouraged the idea that financial planning is simply about choosing the right wrapper, an ISA, a pension, and picking a few investments.   Given how financial advice has evolved over the past 30 years, it’s understandable why this perception exists. But it no longer reflects reality.   Mode

After the exuberance of December, it’s not surprising that January begins with a determination to do things differently. We reflect, reset, and promise ourselves that this  will be the year we finally get on top of things.   Yet history tells a different story.   Various studies suggest that most New Year’s resolutions fail within the first few weeks, and fewer than 10% last longer than a year. When it comes to financial resolutions, the odds are no better.   Why Financial Re

Welcome to the final newsletter of the year. It has been another rollercoaster of a year in markets and in life and our main article this month digs into the biggest lessons we can take from it. There is always something new to learn, even for those of us who have been doing this for decades. The festive season is now in full swing. You may have been lucky enough to secure the M&S Tom Kerridge Beef Wellington for a mere £195. If not, I am certain the usual mountain of festive

November always feels like a pause between seasons. The rush of summer behind us, with the festive buzz still to come. The clocks have changed, the air’s cooler and it’s the perfect time to take a moment and check in on how things are tracking personally and financially. Especially ahead of the Christmas present shopping frenzy! As we approach the UK’s Autumn Budget on 26 November 2025, the media headlines continue to change daily from government leaks and proposals. It is im

We welcome October with the shorter days and the familiar rhythm of autumn in the UK. Later this month, the clocks go back, marking the official start of darker evenings (remember to change the clocks - including the cooker!). It's a natural time to pause, reflect on the year behind us, and prepare thoughtfully for what lies ahead. We have mentioned in previous newsletters the importance of planning - we are Financial Planners after all. Feeling behind on your finances can be

September has officially arrived and with that comes out the slippers and woolly jumpers, ready for the colder mornings and darker evenings. We're delighted to bring this Castlebay Monthly edition to you which includes hot topics of discussion and a glimpse of our new company logo! A talking point over recent months, and featured on our August webinar, has been the transition people go through from being a decade-long saver to becoming a spender. This can often be an uncomfor

Yet another month has passed and with that comes the August Castlebay Monthly. With the Scottish schools going back this week and the English schools counting down the last few weeks before a new term, this time of year hopefully goes ahead with recharged batteries, ready for the last of the summer months before we start to hibernate again. As a reminder, while the direction of investment markets change on a daily basis, long-term success comes from staying calm in both good

As we settle into what promises to be a sweltering summer across the UK and Europe, it's a perfect time to pause and reflect on the first half of the year. Just as this week's record temperatures caught many by surprise, the financial markets have served up their own share of unexpected twists and turns over the last six months. In this month's newsletter, we've included our mid-year review to help you make sense of recent market events and the timeless lessons they reinforce

Welcome to this month’s edition of the Castlebay Monthly. Our feature article, "Your investment journey doesn't stop when you retire". At first glance, this may seem to only be appropriate for those of a certain age... not pointing fingers I promise! However, it is still just as relevant and important for those who are 10, 20 even 30 years away from when they intend on stopping work. The article aims to explain just how long your investment time horizon actually is, which goe

Welcome to this month’s edition of the Castlebay Monthly. Our feature article, "Logic Lost to Fear," reflects on the importance of maintaining composure and sound judgment in uncertain times. As external pressures mount, the ability to stand firm, guided by reason rather than reaction, remains essential. We have shared some interesting events that may find a place in your diary over the coming months. There are also insightful articles on topics ranging from treating your lei

Welcome to the “Castlebay Monthly”, a newsletter which features topics we hope you find of interest in the world of personal finance, financial planning and investing. Our inaugural newsletter features some thoughts and graphics on investing for the long term and dialling down the short-term noise. There will be an absence of market commentary and predictions. However, we will provide some graphics and thoughts on how markets have fared over longer time periods. We avoid shor